Computational and theoretical studies of electron and positron collisions with atomic and molecular systems

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We are investigating the collisions of electrons and positrons (which are the antiparticles of electrons) from atomic and molecular systems. We run large-scale computer programs to calculate what happens when free electrons and positrons scatter from atoms and molecules in a gas. We work closely with experimental groups who are measuring these processes in order to understand the fundamental physics which they involve. This helps us to develop better theoretical models to describe these collisions at the most detailed quantum mechanical levels possible and aids the experimentalists in interpreting their measurements. We also use our data to help model an x-ray detector called a gas-proportional scintillation counter which is used in x-ray astonomy aboard satellites, for example. Our calculations are also important for developing better lighting sources and plasma display panels.